At Hobart and William Smith you'll find an unparalleled liberal arts curriculum that revolves around sharp analysis and clear-eyed communication. In small classes taught by a dedicated faculty, you'll find enriching academic, personal and creative partnerships that will amplify your voice and sense of purpose. You'll apply your education through a guaranteed internship, civic service, independent research, study abroad or, as many students opt for, all of the above. You'll face the future with confidence, supported each step of the way.
Founded as two separate colleges -Hobart for men in 1822 and William Smith for women in 1908 -Hobart and William Smith are proud of our heritage and everything it stands for, namely that we value gender and inclusion. HWS graduated the first woman to receive a medical degree in the U.S., were the first in the nation to have an LGBTQ undergraduate program and among the first to offer majors and minors in Africana studies, women's studies and men's studies. Today, that means that in attending HWS, you are part of a community that pays attention to equity, race, gender and justice. We think about it. We study it. We act on it. And we are committed to creating change that leads to a better future.
About
From the School
Contact & Visit
Campus Visits Contact
629 S. Main St.
Geneva, NY 14456
Experience College Life
The Katherine D. Elliott Studio Arts Center
Stern Hall
Caird Center for Sports and Recreation
Rosensweig Learning Commons and Au Bon Pain
Gearan Center for the Performing Arts; Trinity Hall, which houses the Salisbury Center for Career, Professional and Experiential Education; the Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning; and the Center for Global Education; Centennial Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship and Innovation; Bozzuto Center for Entrepreneurship and Bozzuto Boathouse
Geneva's downtown restaurants and shops
Women's Rights National Historical Park and Women's Hall of Fame
Finger Lakes wineries and breweries
The Smith Center for the Arts
Waterloo Premium Outlets is a shopping center with retail outlets of leading national brands. It's 15 minutes from campus. Other popular local destinations include: Harriet Tubman Home, Watkins Glen State Park, Bristol Mountain Ski Resort, CMAC, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and Taughannock Falls State Park. All of which are within a 30 to 45 minute drive.
Campus Tours
9:30am-4:30pm; 9:30am-noon
(315) 781-3622
Dates: Year-round
Times: Varies
Average Length: 1 hour
On Campus Interview
Faculty and Coach Visits
Class Visits
Overnight Dorm Stays
Transportation
Admissions
Admissions
Overall
From The School
- Hobart and William Smith application deadlines are as follows:
- Early Decision – Nov. 15
- Early Decision II – Jan. 15
- Regular Decision – Feb. 1
- Ample merit scholarships are available for qualifying students as well as need-based financial aid. An HWS scholarship application and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) should be submitted by the appropriate deadline above.
- Admissions interviews are highly encouraged and offered in-person and remotely throughout a student's senior year. Students who complete an admissions interview are accepted at a much higher rate than students who do not.
- Demonstrated interest in HWS factors into our final decision. Students should express their interest in HWS by requesting more information, engaging with HWS faculty, staff and students, or visiting campus.
- Common characteristics of students who thrive on our campus:
- Inquisitive and open-minded
- Academically, artistically and/or athletically ambitious
- Entrepreneurial, innovative and outcomes-oriented
- Environmentally and/or socially conscious
Overview
GPA Breakdown
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(enrolled students)
(enrolled students)
Testing Policies
Deadlines
Early Decision — November 15
Early Decision II — January 15
Regular — February 1
Other Admission Factors
Rigor of Secondary School Record
Academic GPA
Selectivity Rating
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Learn MoreAcademics
Academics
Overall
From The School
Academic Programs
At Hobart and William Smith, our top priority is preparing you to make a difference in the world. Our liberal arts curriculum requires you to achieve eight goals that will shape your perspective and make you competitive as you apply to internships, grad school and jobs. You'll decide how you accomplish these goals with the help of your faculty adviser. Together, you'll create an academic plan that fits your unique personality. You'll also choose two areas of concentration – either a major and a minor or a double major. By studying more than one subject, you'll be able to make the connections necessary to solve the big challenges that face our society today.
Majors and Degrees Offered
The Colleges offer three degrees–Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in Teaching. The Master of Arts is designed exclusively for HWS graduates enrolled in the Teacher Education Program.
All majors (except those marked with an asterisk) may also be pursued as minors.
Majors
Africana Studies
American Studies
Anthropology
Anthropology and Sociology*
Architectural Studies*
Art: Art History
Art: Studio Art
Asian Studies
Biochemistry*
Biology
Chemistry
Classics
Comparative Literature
Computer Science
Critical Sexuality and Queer Studies
Critical Social Studies
Dance
Economics
Education
English
Environmental Studies
European Studies
French and Francophone Studies
Geoscience
Greek
History
Individual Major*
International Relations
Latin
Latin American Studies
Mathematics
Media and Society
Music
Philosophy
Physics
Political Science
Psychological Science
Religious Studies
Russian History and Society*
Russian Language and Culture*
Sociology
Spanish and Hispanic Studies
Theatre
Women's Studies
Writing and Rhetoric
Minors
Aesthetics
African Studies
African American Studies
Atmospheric Science
Child Advocacy
Civic Engagement and Social Justice
Classical Studies
Concentration in French
Education
Entrepreneurial Studies
German Area Studies
Health Professions
Holocaust Studies
Law and Society
Men's Studies
Middle Eastern Studies
Peace Studies
Public Policy Studies
Russian Area Studies
Russian Language
The Sacred in Cross-Cultural Perspective
Social Justice Studies
Sustainable Community Development
Urban Studies
Writing Colleagues
Pre-professional Programs
Engineering – Through the physics department, students have the option to pursue a joint engineering degree from HWS and either Columbia University or Dartmouth College
Health Professions – Our placement rate for medical, dental and veterinary school applicants exceeds 80%, well abovethe national average
Pre-business – Training in topics such as accounting, finance, statistics and market research and the option to complete an accelerated M.B.A. through joint degree programs between HWS and Clarkson University or Rochester Institute of Technology
Pre-law – Extensive counseling and the option to pursue a joint degree from HWS and Cornell University
Teacher Education Program – 40+ hours of teaching experience each semester leading to New York State Teacher Certification
Faculty and Class Information
Graduation Rates
Majors
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ARCHITECTURE AND RELATED SERVICES.
Architecture and Related Services, Other.
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AREA, ETHNIC, CULTURAL, GENDER, AND GROUP STUDIES.
African Studies.
American/United States Studies/Civilization.
Asian Studies/Civilization.
European Studies/Civilization.
Gay/Lesbian Studies.
Latin American Studies.
Russian Studies.
Women's Studies.
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BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES.
Biochemistry.
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.
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COMMUNICATION, JOURNALISM, AND RELATED PROGRAMS.
Mass Communication/Media Studies.
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COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SCIENCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
Computer and Information Sciences, General.
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EDUCATION.
Education, General.
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ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE/LETTERS.
English Language and Literature, General.
Writing, General.
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FOREIGN LANGUAGES, LITERATURES, AND LINGUISTICS.
Ancient/Classical Greek Language and Literature.
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics.
Comparative Literature.
Foreign Languages and Literatures, General.
Foreign Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other.
French Language and Literature.
Latin Language and Literature.
Russian Language and Literature.
Spanish Language and Literature.
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HISTORY.
History, General.
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LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES, GENERAL STUDIES AND HUMANITIES.
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
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MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS.
Mathematics, General.
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NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION.
Environmental Studies.
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PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES.
Philosophy.
Religion/Religious Studies.
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PHYSICAL SCIENCES.
Chemistry, General.
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences, Other.
Physical Sciences, Other.
Physics, General.
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PSYCHOLOGY.
Psychology, General.
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PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND SOCIAL SERVICE PROFESSIONS.
Public Policy Analysis, General.
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SOCIAL SCIENCES.
Anthropology.
Economics, General.
International Relations and Affairs.
Political Science and Government, General.
Social Sciences, General.
Sociology.
Urban Studies/Affairs.
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VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS.
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.
Dance, General.
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.
Fine/Studio Arts, General.
Music, General.
Students Say
Degrees
Master's
Career Services
Alumni Network
Alumni Services
Classes
Interest Inventory
Internships
Regional Alumni
Experiential
Internship
Notable Faculty
Prominent Alumni
Academic Rating
Careers
Careers
Graduation Rates
Career Services
Alumni Network
Alumni Services
Classes
Interest Inventory
Internships
Regional Alumni
Experiential
Internship
ROI & Outcomes
Students Say
Excerpt from Colleges That Create Futures
Tuition & Aid
Tuition & Aid
Overview
From The School
Tuition, Room, Board and Fees
Our 2020-21 charges are as follows:
Tuition: $57,400
Room: $8,275
Board: $6,815
Student Activities Fee: $400
Health & Wellness Fee: $360
Technology Fee: $490
Books, supplies, travel and other personal expenses are not included in the above costs.
Financial Aid
At Hobart and William Smith, we understand that college is an expensive endeavor. That's why we offer substantial scholarships and grants to students who are likely to thrive on our campus. Activists, artists, community leaders, innovators, performers, scientists and academic all-stars are celebrated for the good work and dedication leading up to their application to HWS. Ranging from $5,000 -$35,000 per year, potential scholars should submit a scholarship application alongside their application for admission.
HWS requires all students who wish to apply for need-based financial aid to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). In addition, prospective students who wish to apply for HWS grant aid must file the CSS PROFILE application.
Dates
Required Forms
Forms CSSProfile
School
State Aid
Financial Aid Statistics
Expenses per Academic Year
Available Aid
Need-Based College/University Scholarship or Grant Aid from Institutional Funds
Need-Based Federal Pell
Need-Based Private Scholarships
Need-Based SEOG
Need-Based State Scholarships
Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
Financial Aid Rating
Student Body
Student Body
Overall
From The School
Our student body includes 1,824 undergraduate students and nine graduate students. We have 201 faculty members and a student-faculty ratio of 9:1. The average class size is 16 students.
At Hobart and William Smith you'll join a vibrant, intellectual community made up of artists, athletes, innovators, performers, scholars... the list is as diverse as it is continuous. On the shores of Seneca Lake you'll build enriching academic, personal and creative partnerships with professors, classmates, alums and residents of Geneva, N.Y. You'll be encouraged by a supportive network to explore the world, as it is — and as it could be.
On any given day you might:
- Attend forums with national and international journalists, politicians, authors, scientists, athletes and academics.
- Investigate career options through dozens of Professionals in Residence events happening every semester.
- Get involved in nearly 100 clubs on everything from public affairs to ultimate Frisbee. Don't see something that catches your attention? We'll help you start your own club.
- Participate on one of 23 varsity teams, dozens of intramural sports, or head out to our athletic facilities to cheer on your friends.
- Hang out in residence halls that are single-gender or co-ed, or one where residents share an interest in a similar theme or cause.
With more than 100 student clubs and organizations, 23 varsity athletic teams, leadership programs, vocal and instrumental ensembles, entrepreneurship incubators and competitions, community service projects, campus job opportunities, intramural sports, theatre productions and much more, you're bound to find an activity that interests you and meet others who share that interest.
Student Body Profile
Demographics
Students Say
Campus Life
Campus Life
Overview
From The School
Location
Our location on the shores of Seneca Lake allows you to put your education into action. The lake becomes a laboratory, the city of Geneva is a partner in studying and creating change, and major historical landmarks that shaped our nation are within a short driving distance. Your experience will be amplified through community service, research, study abroad, athletics and leadership training. With more than 100 student clubs to join, you can continue the activities you already enjoy and discover new ones. In the beautiful Finger Lakes Region of Upstate New York, you'll not only have unique opportunities in and out of the classroom, you'll also have a stunning backdrop for your college years.
Campus Facilities & Equipment
Campus facilities include more than 85 student residences, 48 classroom and administrative buildings, library, dining hall, three cafés, pub, two gymnasia, sport and recreation center, performing arts center, numerous athletics fields, several computer labs, studio arts center, intercultural center, chapel, career center, infirmary, student activities center, bookstore, radio station, and boathouse with docking facilities. A few facilities that enhance the academic experience at HWS in a unique way are highlighted below.
The Bozzuto Center for Entrepreneurship
Classrooms, discussion spaces, workspaces and meeting spaces in downtown Geneva allow students to develop entrepreneurial ideas in a setting where there can be increased community partnerships.
Centennial Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Regardless of a student's academic interests, the Centennial Center prepares leaders and entrepreneurs to drive innovation. Among other programs, the Centennial Center is host to annual Hackathons, pitch competitions and idea accelerators.
Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning (CCESL)
CCESL provides opportunities for learning through service that results in civically engaged students and graduates who are active, global citizens.
Center for Global Education (CGE)
CGE provides students with academically challenging off-campus study experiences that foster an in-depth understanding of another culture(s) and encourages global citizenship.
Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL)
CTL helps students realize their academic potential through academic enrichment and support as well as disability services.
Finger Lakes Institute (FLI)
FLI is dedicated to the promotion of environmental research and education about the Finger Lakes and surrounding environments. Through summer research and intern positions, students gain valuable experience in the aquatic sciences.
Fisher Center for Gender and Justice
The Fisher Center brings together faculty, students and experts in gender-related fields in the arts, humanities and social and natural sciences to foster mutual understanding and social justice in contemporary society.
Intercultural Affairs Center (IC)
The IC is a welcoming space that fosters an environment of student support and encourages students' personal growth, academic success and leadership skills. Programs and collaborative initiatives broaden cross-cultural understanding; foster an appreciation for diversity, inclusion and social justice; and strengthen community bonds.
Salisbury Center for Career, Professional and Experiential Education
Through a detailed career preparation program, a robust alum and parent network and a guaranteed internship or research opportunity, students determine their personal path to a meaningful career.
Trias Residency for Writers
Distinguished poets and fiction writers join the HWS community, mentoring students, hosting readings and workshops and creating new work on the shores of Seneca Lake.
The William Scandling
Hobart and William Smith's steel hulled, 65-foot scientific research vessel provides student and faculty classroom and research activities. Used regularly by biology, geoscience and chemistry students, the vessel is fully equipped for sediment, water and biota studies.
Off-Campus Opportunities
Through the nationally ranked global education program, more than 60% of Hobart and William Smith students study abroad before they graduate. Our Center for Global Education provides opportunities to participate in faculty-led programs, internships and community service on six continents through its more than 50 extraordinary programs. Whether it is interning with an organization in Vietnam, studying Spanish and living with a host family in Spain, or conducting fieldwork on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, such experiences complement and enhance the on-campus academic program.
Through the Salisbury Center for Career, Professional and Experiential Education, students attend networking trips across the country. Trips are offered during winter and spring breaks and allow students to take a deep dive into a particular industry, learning more about career opportunities and how to prepare for them. Past programs include Day on the Hill in Washington, D.C., Week on Wall Street in New York City, L.A. Media and Entertainment, and NYC Advertising/PR Day.
Campus Life
Housing Options
Apartment Single
Cooperative
Disabled Student
Dorms Coed
Dorms Male
Frat Sorority
International Student
Theme Housing
Wellness Housing
Students Say
Special Needs Admissions
Documentation Required for LD
Documentation and guidelines are available online: http://www.hws.edu/academics/ctl/disability_services.aspxDocumentation Required for ADHD
Documentation and guidelines are available online: http://www.hws.edu/academics/ctl/disability_services.aspxSpecial Need Services Offered
Student Activities
Sports
Crew Rowing
Cross Country
Football
Golf
Ice Hockey
Lacrosse
Sailing
Soccer
Squash
Tennis
Crew Rowing
Cross Country
Diving
Field Hockey
Golf
Ice Hockey
Lacrosse
Sailing
Soccer
Squash
Swimming
Tennis
Student Services
Womens Center
Army ROTC Offered at cooperating institutions: Syracuse University
Air Force ROTC Offered at cooperating institutions: Syracuse University
Sustainability
Data provided by Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), STARS®, as of March, 2021.
Campus Security Report
The Jeanne Clery Act requires colleges and universities to disclose their security policies, keep a public crime log, publish an annual crime report and provide timely warnings to students and campus employees about a crime posing an immediate or ongoing threat to students and campus employees.
Please visit The Princeton Review’s page on campus safety for additional resources: http://www.princetonreview.com/safety
The Princeton Review publishes links directly to each school's Campus Security Reports where available. Applicants can also access all school-specific campus safety information using the Campus Safety and Security Data Analysis Cutting Tool provided by the Office of Postsecondary Education of the U.S. Department of Education: https://ope.ed.gov/campussafety/#/